Pippi Longstocking

Literary Hero

Born: 1944

Birthplace: Vimmerby, Sweden

Best known as: Super-strong girl with long red ponytails

Name at birth: Pippi Langstrum

Pippi Longstocking is the creation of Swedish author Astrid Lindgren. Pippi, the daughter of a seldom-seen pirate, has long red ponytails, piles of gold, superhuman strength and boundless mirth. Her books are among the most translated children's books in the world, and have been adapted to television, film and animation.